Latino/Latin American Studies examines the experiences of Latin American and Spanish-speaking Caribbean peoples' living in the United States by focusing on cultural productions by, and about, U.S. Latinos that may reflect the processes of migration, transnationalities, assimilation, identity and community-building. Latin American studies specifically examines the part of the globe called Latin America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean with an emphasis on that region's history, literature, economy and politics. The Latino/Latin American Studies minor at Saint Xavier University thus provides a well-rounded overview of the Latino/Latin American experiences in U.S./global contexts.
The minor is a source of professional development that complements areas of study related to Latinos/Latin America such as education, nursing, communications, business and any of the social sciences. Many courses are augmented with activities such as films, field trips and community service projects. Students are especially encouraged to participate in study abroad courses and independent research initiatives with faculty.
The Latino/Latin American studies minor requires 18 credit hours. Students are required to take LS 101: Introduction to Latino/Latin Studies and one course in the Spanish language at any level. The remaining 12 credit hours should be drawn from the following range of disciplines: Art/Humanities/Music/Literature; History; Social Sciences; Foreign Languages and Study Abroad Programs. These courses will satisfy requirements for the University's General Education Program, in addition to many major requirements. While there is no prescribed course of study, students must take courses in at least two of the disciplines mentioned above.
As it is the intent of this minor to be truly interdisciplinary in scope, other courses may be approved in consultation with the director. It is recommended, though not required, that Introduction to Latino Studies be taken prior to or in conjunction with other Latino/Latin American studies courses. Consult Self-Service using the course type "Latino/Latin American Studies" to identify course sections approved for the minor.